Thursday, June 25, 2009

This weekend is all about glitz, glam and gayness! Twin Cities Pride is in full swing and we couldn't be more excited. After all, how often can one get away with wearing sequins, feathers and rhinestones at the same time? Let your rainbow flag fly, or just come along for the ride as Pride takes over our fair cities for a weekend of amazing festivities. There's plenty to do and see, so dust off that tiara and make the scene!

xo-l'étoile

THURSDAY JUNE 25TH

Dennis Dumm Photo exhibit

@ Sen Yai Sen Lek2422 Central Avenue NEMinneapolis

7pm-9pm/free

Cyclist and photographer Dennis Dumm was tragically struck and killed by a semi-truck while riding his bike to work on May 20th. Tonight, at trendy Northeast Thai restaurant, Sen Yai Sen Lek, Dumm's most recent works will be on display for all to see. Using a technique called cross processing and a camera with a plastic lens, Dennis’s images are striking, colorful and almost otherworldly. Proceeds from the sale of his work will go to Transit for Livable Communities, a nonprofit working to reform Minnesota’s transportation system. If you can’t make it, you can donate in Dennis’s name here, or stop in to see the show this summer, as it will be on display through September 25th.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

THURSDAY JUNE 25TH (THROUGH FRIDAY)

Queertopia

@ Bedlam Theatre 1501 S. 6th St. West Bank, Minneapolis

7:30pm / $8-10 (or pay what you can)

What queer paradise would be complete without flamboyance and a lot of cabaret? Tonight’s “Queertopia” features a radical, raunchy evening of eclectic queer artists’ performances guaranteed to shock, amuse, befuddle and bedazzle. Curated by Jeffry Lusiak and hosted by Maren Ward and Molly Van Avery, “Queertopia” includes fab works from locals, Karen Sherman, The Wreck Family, the 20% Theatre Company, Tyler Jensen, Tish Jones, Empowered Expressions, Xavier Rice and l’étoile fave, Jaime Carrera. And because in cabaret, double headers are better than one, “Queertopia” returns Friday night for an encore performance. If this is queer paradise, you better believe we’re knocking on heavens door.

Celebrate the collaborative birthdays of some of our favorite ladies! l'étoile cohorts Jahna, Di, and Kelsy of Eclecticoiffeur turn another year wiser and prettier tonight (or within the vicinity of tonight anyway) with a little help from their friends at Clubhouse Jager. Dance the night away with electro-smoothies Lookbook and DJ party crew "Pizza Beach." Throw in a bit o' video magic from Alphasuede, $5 EC-tinis, and lots of glitter and you've got a recipe for a fabulous Thursday evenin'.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

FRIDAY ART PICK: PAUL RICHMOND

Paul Richmond is a prolific contemporary gay artist who explores the development of sexuality in a fascinating series of paintings which cleverly blends figurative and abstract elements in a sensitive yet controversial approach. His idyllic and poetic subject matter make his work seem like the illustrations of a gay fable or fairy tale with a tinge of pop culture influence and a sprinkling of glitter here and there.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PAUL RICHMOND SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 26TH

Purple Rain Sing-A-Long and Costume Contest

@ First Ave 701 1st Ave. N. Minneapolis

8pm / 18+/ $3

Almost 27 years since its release, the cult classic Purple Rain continues to be First Ave’s most iconic claim to fame. Forget Halloween, tonight First Ave encourages you to channel your hottest Appollonia, Morris Day, or of course, Prince himself -- you may just win an awesome prize! Celebrate the 80s magic that was Purple Rain and join in the ultimate sing-a-long during a screening of Purple Rain on the First Ave stage. Don’t remember all the words? Don’t worry, a cheat sheet will be on hand to help you belt out “When Doves Cry.”

One of our favorite things about summer, is the over-abundance of garage sales each weekend -- and MNFashion brings us an uber-stylin' sale that will put all others to shame. Over the last few weeks the fancy dames at MNFashion have been gathering up the Twin Cities best in gently used, stylish clothes, accessories, books, sewing supplies, beauty products and a few fun surprises. The sale will be open Friday and Saturday, however, Friday is a special preview with a $10 admission that gains you first dibs on the sale items. Friday will also include a silent auction, with items like Guthrie tix and designs from locals Ruby3, George Moskal and Frances Zerr and a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes, plus appetizers and wine. Saturday the sale will be free and open to the public.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MNFASHION SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 26TH

Boys and Toys

@ Gallery 122 at Hang It 122 8th St. SE. Minneapolis

7-10pm / Free

Well-known hair wizard and salon owner, Denny Kemp, found art long before he dove into the beauty biz. From realism to fantasy, Kemp’s artwork ranges from paint, pencil drawings, and more recently, photography. His latest body of work, “Boys & Toys,” features pretty, pretty "boys" set against vivid colors and within alluring environments. Tonight’s opening reception is sponsored by PBR, so crack a cold one and gaze upon some hot art. “Boys & Toys” run through August 10th.

If you’re at this block party emceed by Foxy Tann, you won’t miss a thing. Nosh on organic food, let the North Star Rollergirls swerve around you, and get down to music by Tina Schlieske, l’etoile favorites Black Blondie, Dykes Do Drag, Little Miss Sweettooth and the Daisy Dukes and Sick of Sarah. Whew! This is a zero-waste event, so you can party guiltlessly, knowing you’re only helping the planet with the sweet vibes you’re emitting.

Prepare for a scandalous evening! DJ Shiek and DJ Ajent Orange remind you that dancing is one of the best ways to show your pride. Enjoy drink specials throughout the night, like $3 X-Rated shots $3 Skyy Vodka drinks and $5 Skyy Redbulls until 11:30. VIP tables are available, which benefit Foundation IX, so book them now, you Very Important Person!

Not to gush, but if there is any band in town poised on the edge of a national breakthrough, it’s Gospel Gossip. After an insane year of playing their hearts out in all our favorite dive bars around town – not to mention, an amazing set at this years Voltage - Gospel Gossip has finally gained the attention of music lovers, bloggers, and critics across the country (yes, even Pitchfork) for the beautiful noise they create. Join them, along side Lookbook, MuteEra, and Black Horse for the release of their brilliantly packaged new album Dreamland, by far one of our favorite local releases of the year.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GOSPEL GOSSIP MYSPACE

FRIDAY JUNE 26TH

Bomp V: Bedlam Blitz

Our pals at BRLSQOTHEQUE are back again with Bomp V: Bedlam Blitz! Tonight's edition is inspired by the Rocky Horror Picture Show, so channel your best Transylvanian tranny and add enough glitter to blind your Grandma (it is Pride Weekend after all). This month's Bomp will be one for the books, as usual, so get thee to the Bedlam Theater for a two-level dance jam that will blow your mind. Featuring DJs Jonathan Ackerman, Naughty Boy, Cities of Gold, Jimmy 2 Times, Mike the 2600 King, Wezz Winship, Shannon Blowtorch, the Moongoons, Paper Tiger, and Rambo Salinas. Crazy!

Sponsored by l'étoile magazine, of course!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

COOL LINK: I LOVE DEAR JOHN

Consider this blog a missed connections for love letters. In all their sappy, longing, angsty glory, these love confessions are a great read, and a great way to secretly tell that lady or man everything you haven’t had the guts to...for all the world to see, of course. It’s good to know people are still lusting and loving -- and thanks to the internetz, we can read all about it!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE I LOVE DEAR JOHN SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 27TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Pride Festival

@ Loring ParkMinneapolis

Saturday: 10am-10pmSunday: 10am-6pm

A lot of us wait all year for the Pride Festival and surrounding pre-and after-parties. Everyone’s in a great mood, there are six stages full of entertainment, music and drag, fireworks, and more. Plus, people are dressed their best of the year, and there are more than enough vendors and food to keep you over-stimulated. Paddle across the lake in Loring Park, stop by the country-western dancing tent, toss back a few in the beer garden and check out some history in the Tretter Collection’s exhibit. If you didn’t get enough today, come back tomorrow for part deux!

Here is the plan: Get to the Bedlam at 5 for the art show curated by Kelly Brazil, drink some wine and hobnob for a bit. At 8, grab a good spot in the theatre for some saucy cabaret hosted by Gogopimp Tiff. After all, an event called the Dirty Queer Show ought to deliver some fabulously risqué entertainment. Stick around til 10 for the dance party DJ’d by the one and only Shannon Blowtorch.

Listen up ladies! Because this one’s just for you. The all-night dirty dance frenzy recently voted “The Best Place to Meet Single Lesbian Women” by City Pages, Booby-Trap, takes over the Soap Factory tonight. Featuring the Dykes in the City Fashion Show showing off a haute new line of clothing, BT Go Go Girlz shakin' it all night long, a special performance by The Booby Trap Girlz, and sexy sets from the hottest lesbian DJs in MPLS, DJ Daniela, DJ Shiek and DJ Ajent Orange. Cash bar only, so don’t forget your Benjamins!

Chartering the beautiful Lake Minnetonka waters on a four-hour tour, the gorgeous, enclosed sternwheeler, “Lake of the Lake” sets sail for their annual sunset boat cruise tonight, rain or shine. DJ Jonathan Ackerman provides the tunes as you sip on cocktails, enjoy appetizers and boogie on board. Boarding spaces are limited so get your tickets early!

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SATURDAY JUNE 27TH

Sawdust City / Digitata EP Release

@ 1st Amendment Arts1101 Stinson BlvdMinneapolis

7-10pm / 21+ / All Ages

Part art opening, part CD release show, and part dance party – First Amendment’s got everything you’re looking for to kick off a Saturday night. Music will commence at 8:30 with a set by the hilariously named Marijuana Deathsquads (members of Building Better Bombs), followed by a rare performance by electro-rockers Digitata, playing together for the first time in a year and a half. Get your hands on Digitata’s brand new, limited edition, hand silk screened EP while peeping new paintings, prints, photos and more from artists Eric Lee, David Jensen, and Chance Orth. Rumor has it, one of the artists has even fashioned a wine-fountain for your drinking pleasure. DJ sets from BRLSQOTHEQUE Sound System will round out the evening.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY JUNE 27TH

Attitude City

Head to Clubhouse Jager this evening and indulge your disco dance fantasies with the boys of Attitude City. Sip icy cocktails while steaming things up on the dance floor all night long to the tune of electro, disco and more. While you're there, be sure to get your mitts on a ticket to the Attitude City Yacht Party, coming up July 19th -- it's the social event of the season and tickets ALWAYS sell out fast!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE AC SITE

SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: THE GOSSIP

Say what you will about Beth Ditto and The Gossip’s switch to the Sony major label. We still think they’re the bee’s knees. Besides there’s nothing like a full-figured, lesbian riot-grrl from Arkansas to stir things up. Yes, the infamous Beth Ditto and crew have struck again with their new EP Music For Men, released last month, and it hasn’t left our iPods since. Portland’s bluesy, dance-punk, queercore band, The Gossip, has been paired with girl-fronted politica bands, Sleater-Kinney and Le Tigre. The band also packs a controversial punk rock punch for their openness about sexuality and Ditto herself, who has raised some eyebrows with her nudie poses on the cover of NME music zine and others. The new EP, Music For Men, keeps us dancing with the indie-electro, “For Keeps” and the old-school bluesy punk vibes of “Dimestore Diamond,” which remind us of how giddy-up gospel Ditto’s vocals can be.

Bonus: Can’t get enough Ditto? British fast-fashion chain, Evans, hits stores July 9th with a trendy, 80s-tastic plus-size clothing line from Ditto herself. Take that American Apparel!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GOSSIP MYSPACE

SUNDAY JUNE 28TH

2009 Ashley Rukes Pride Parade

@ Starting at 3rd & HennepinContinuing to Loring ParkMinneapolis

9am pre-party, 11am parade / Free

Wave those rainbow flags! Rock that rhinestone-encrusted cod piece! Put on a damn wig, for crying out loud! It's time for the annual Ashley Rukes Gay Pride Parade -- the biggest and brightest parade in all of Minnesota! Spectate and socialize all along Hennepin Avenue this Sunday morning as a flurry of flashy floats and fancy characters prance gaily by, all in the name of PRIDE. The parade begins at 3rd & Hennepin and continues all the way down to Loring Park, where the Pride Festival will already be in full swing. We can think of no better way to cap off a weekend of freedom and merriment. Yay for gay pride!

Here at l'étoile, we are completely obsessed with drinking good Bloody Marys! Our favorite meal-in-a-cup/hangover cure has been taken to the next level at Eat Street staple, Azia. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Sunday you can indulge in the ultimate build-your-own Bloody Mary bar. Featuring not only all the standard Bloody-friendly fare, but also glorious additions such as red curry, serano chili, lychee and pickled ginger -- just to name a few. Put your own spin on bloody sake, bloody beer, and other bloody concoctions made with vodka, tequila, whiskey and gin. Accompany your drink with something off Azia's new "Sunday Snackin'" menu featuring such delectables as Pork Steamed Buns, Sweet Potato Fries with Curry Aioli, Kobe or Crabcake sliders, Tempura veggies and more. What could make this even more enticing? Everything on the menu is ONLY $5 -- food AND bloodys. What a deal!SPECIAL DEAL FOR L'ETOILE READERS: Mention l'etoile and recieve a free appetizer off the Bloody Sunday menu with the purchase of any Bloody Mary!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE AZIA WEBSITE

TUESDAY JUNE 30TH

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager923 Washington Avenue N.Minneapolis

Every Tuesday10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

I’m so excited that Rodarte designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy took home the CFDA for Womenswear Designers of the Year. I adore these two. They regularly turn out my favorite collections and always have the most entertaining stories about their process. (They famously watched four horror movies a day for a year for inspiration.)

Snap up deals on a fun and stylish mix of clothes and accessories, housewares and books, sewing supplies (including a dress form), beauty products and a few surprises!

On Friday, get first dibs at the Preview sale, where you can get your hands on the good stuff before it's ravaged by the masses, and also bid on cool silent auction items such as Guthrie tickets, items from local designers such as George Moskal, Ruby3 and Frances Zerr, photo sessions, and a lovely pair of Christian Louboutin shoes.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

This weekend's forecast looks a bit dreary, but when has that ever stopped you from partying? Whether you're braving the potential precipitation at one of the many outdoor extravaganzas or keepin' your 'do dry inside, there are more than enough opportunities to shake what your momma gave ya. There are no shortage of dance parties to be had, and with the abundance of fashion, art and live music around town this weekend, we're sure you'll find a way to make it memorable -- rain or shine!

p.s.-Don't forget to visit Dad this Sunday!

xo-l'étoile

THURSDAY JUNE 18TH

Third Thursdays: Victoria's Virtue

@ Minneapolis Institute of Arts2400 3rd Ave S.Minneapolis

6pm-9pm / Free

It’s a Pre-Raphaelite evening at the MIA! Sin and Salvation just opened, so you can get a taste of controversial British Victorian painters. Watch Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the creepy silent film inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson. The Pre-Raphaelite aesthetic is lush and romantic, and as you listen to the music of Jeremy Messersmith, you’ll be lusting over Anna Lee’s hats and headdresses. You might not be able to wear all those frilly, bustier-showcasing frocks, but you can at least take a bit of the whimsical home with you on your head, courtesy of the Ruby3 trunk show.

Bonus: The Walker Art Center also has a free Thursday event, featuring Beatrix*JAR playing in the sky pesher!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MIA SITE

THURSDAY JUNE 18TH

Poolside Fashion Show

@ Calhoun Beach Club2925 Dean Pkwy Minneapolis

7pm / $15 / $25 VIP

Celebrate the return of warm, sunny weather at the third annual Vita.mn Poolside Fashion Show. Gather ‘round the Calhoun Beach Club’s swank rooftop poolside at dusk for a look at the best of this season's warm-weather wear, and walk away with a checklist of must-have garments to add to your sunny weather wardrobes. A jazz band will accompany the three-part runway soiree featuring a range of styles from local and national designers. As of 3 p.m. the show is still scheduled to go on, rain or shine!

Bonus: Fashion styling by l’étoile contributor Jahna Peloquin!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VITA.MN SITEImage by Alex Uncather. Styling by Jahna, Charlie & Romeny

THURSDAY JUNE 19TH

Slap!

@ Kitty Cat Klub313 14th Ave SEMinneapolis

10pm / 21+ / Free

Get slap happy at the Kitty Cat Klub with unstoppable ménage Tendercakes and Millz Billz, this month accompanied by super special guest DJ Fundo. These bad-asses are constantly finding newer, kinkier ways of mashing up hip-hop, dance music, and rock ’n’ roll, making it nearly impossible to have a bad time. And as always, Slap will include jams, drinks, dancing, laughs, DJs, photos, kisses and lots o' SLAPS!SLAP! is sponsored by l'étoile magazine!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE KITTY CAT KLUB SITE

ART PICK: JESSICA WARD

Guam-born artist, Jessica Ward, is not about to glamorize being a teenage girl with lip gloss and mini-skirts. Her vivid graphite and color drawings of female figures with detached limbs and incomplete bodies are a visual reminder that hidden neuroses can pop up in the prettiest of places. Exposing the paranoia of eating disorders and teens, Ward’s subjects become more monster than teen and illustrate a storybook of inner delusions where hair is a girl’s worst enemy and cats become accepting protectors and symbols of escape.

When MPLS music critic and songwriter Jim Walsh of the Mad Ripple started the weekly series, Hootenanny, it was just supposed to be a casual social for musicians to consort, swap stories and share ditties. But for Minneapolis-based photographer, Tony Nelson, it became the perfect opportunity to document local creativity, capturing candid portraits of artists doing what they love to do. Nelson added to the project by photographing the artists in more personal settings, recording studios, their homes, wherever they felt the tug of inspiration. Tonight, Fox Tax Gallery and curator Emma Berg present the result of that photojournalistic journey in the exhibit, Hootenanny: A Community. After 11 p.m. head down the block to the Red Stag for a special Hoot with the Mad Ripple immediately following the reception.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

FRIDAY JUNE 19TH

Le Fluers De Mal

@ Bedlam Theatre1501 St. 6th St.Minneapolis

9pm / $10 / 18+

The Bedlam hosts a “Spring Fetish Fashion Bash”, with fashions by Seamstrix, Red Shoe Clothing, Golgotha and Gretta Herman. With Venus DeMars of All the Pretty Horses, Stellar Victor and The NoNo’s on musical duty. Dress to impress! After all, we’re sure you’ve got something vinyl or leather in your closet -- and you may have even gone through a "goth" phase in high school, so improvise!

Bonus: June may very well be the gayest month, due to the Stonewall riots of 1968. 40 years later Stonewall is remembered with "Pegasus" a monthly drag show/dance night/outrageous evening at a place-that-cannot-be-named in close proximity to the Bedlam. 10pm.

Bonus Bonus: Don't miss the Queer Solstice Romp at the Bedlam on Saturday!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BEDLAM SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 19TH

Nyteowl vs. Lookbook vs. Foodteam vs. Solid Gold DJ set

@ Hexagon2600 27th Ave SMinneapolis

10pm / 21+ / Free

Head down to the Hex for a night of live electro-flavored music with local darlings Lookbook, along with electronic-whiz Nyteowl, and the Mystery Palace side project, Foodteam. Plus, indie rockers Solid Gold will be doing a special DJ set in anticipation of their Rock the Garden show on Saturday. Shimmy up to the bar for a delicious adult beverage, served up by our favorite bartenders in town, Rose, Tattoo Bob, and Gaylord! Sounds to us like the Hex will be the place to be on Friday night.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HEXAGON SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 19TH

Wants vs. Needs

@ Club Jager923 Washington Ave NMinneapolis

10pm / 21+ / Free

Good things happen when a group of talented friends with a deep love of music decide to join forces and release a bang-up new mixtape. Props to DJs Espada, Petey Wheatstraw, So Gold, and DJ Anton – they seamlessly mix in B-more, r&b, 80’s, and rap for a sound that is certain to make your neck jerk in musical ecstasy. Join them at the (free) debut of Wants Vs. Needs, pick up a (free) copy of the mixtape, and score yourself a (free) limited edition t-shirt designed by past l'etoile contributor Adam Garcia! Anybody looking for a truly live party this Friday should definitely check it out.

Giddyup and rope em’ in...tonight’s Honeymoon theme is the Wild Wild West. Wear those daisy dukes and neckerchiefs to mop your brow after sweating to the sounds of The Dongers, an all vinyl disco duo from Eau Claire. Also featuring Jimmy 2 Times from Get Cryphy and your gracious hosts, the Moongoons. Horses and mules must be parked outside, and revolvers checked at the door -- the only showdown tonight will be on the dance floor.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HONEYMOON SITE

COOL LINK: LITTER

We were immediately obsessed with this San Fransisco-based line as soon as we laid eyes on it. One part rock n' roll and one part warrior princess, Litter is the epitome of tough-girl elegance. Adorn your limbs with long, delicate chains that loop and cross or add some hardcore to your stilettos with chain mail "shoe jewelry." Litter's hair metal era-inspired ear cuff pieces, scorpion ring/bracelet combos, and Cleopatra-worthy head decorations are bold-statement accessories that may just inspire you to revamp your wardrobe to match.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE LITTER SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 20TH

Photographing Journeys: A Family Day

@ Weisman 333 East River Road Minneapolis

Noon-4 PM/ Free

Today, in conjunction with World Refugee Day, the Weisman celebrates Somali culture through art and family-friendly fun. First, go on an arts and culture excursion complete with interactive activities, henna art, stories told in both English and Somali, photography projects by neighborhood youths and documentaries created by local Somali girls. Take a tour of the new exhibition, Stories of the Somali Diaspora: Photographs by Abdi Roble, a collection of images that document the transition of Somali communities from Africa to the United States.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE WEISMAN SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 20TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Stone Arch Festival of the Arts

@ St. Anthony MainMinneapolis

Saturday and Sunday 10am-6pm / Free

Didn’t snag a ticket to the sold out Rock the Garden? If it's outdoor music and art you’re after this Saturday, look no further than the Stone Arch Festival of the Arts. In addition to a kick ass art festival along the riverfront, the Stone Arch festival offers 4 different stages with music from bands like Spaghetti Western String Co, The Idle Hands, Roma di Luna, Brad Senne, Caroline Smith & The Good Night Sleeps, Wars of 1812, The Absent Arch, Me & My Arrow, John Swardson & Eliza Blue, Jenny Dalton and Chastity Brown. With this much to choose from, you can surely bring Dad! Sounds like one helluva way to kill a hot summer weekend.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE STONEARCH SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 20TH

Disco Picnic

@ Old Arizona Studios patio2821 Nicollet AvenueMinneapolis

2pm-7pm / Free

Would you like a scrumptious slice of John Travolta to accompany your glittery bit of the BeeGees? An afternoon eating and drinking is made better by only one thing: disco. DJs Focus, Nola and Soulfeather spin disco, funk and soul while you patio it up. Practice some disco moves, and zip yourself into those tight, tight pants if you want to quickly make some new friends here.

SATURDAY JUNE 20TH

Brake or Bust

@ Nicademus Art & Framing225 N. Snelling AveSt. Paul

6pm-11pm / Free

We swooned over Dennis Conrad earlier this year, and our crush has only intensified. His colorful graffiti-inspired work is the type we’ve come to expect from one of our favorite St. Paul galleries. If you find a piece you can’t live without, which is likely, you can pick out a frame for it too! Through July 6th.

Where would an art studio be without the work of emerging painters, photographers and mixed media artists? Not celebrating their 2 year anniversary, that’s for sure. Tonight, Umber Studios toasts to the talented peeps who have made the gallery a hotbed for amazing local art. Together exhibits the new work of every artist to have graced the studio wall over the past two years, including Aaron Bickner, Jake Keeler, Keegan Wenkman, Terrence Payne and many more. Come down, celebrate with the gallery owners and artists and pick up an exclusive pair of "I Heart Umber" undies (Umberwear?) Yes, really.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY JUNE 20TH

Femergy

@ Clubhouse Jager923 Washington Avenue NNorth Loop

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

The typically testosterone-fueled monthly dance party, Menergy, gets slapped with a healthy dose of estrogen this evening! Red devil sister DJ duo Tendercakes will take over the dance floor in all their girly, booty shakin' glory, accompanied by feminized visuals by resident vid-master Time Squid and his "Femergization Machine." Hosted by Menergy creator, The Nightstalker, who has succumbed to the wiles of femininity for a rare night of girl-powered body rockin'.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE JAGER MYSPACE

MUSIC PICK: LITERAL VISUALS

Have you ever noticed how messed up and intense music videos from the 80’s were? Someone did, and just to point out their severe weirdness, people have begun covering songs and describing exactly what’s happening in the videos. Our favorite is Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart. Soon you’ll forget the original lyrics and find yourself singing...”What the effing crap, that angel guy just felt me up.” You’ll see.

Here at l'etoile, we are completely obsessed with drinking good Bloody Marys! Our favorite meal-in-a-cup/hangover cure has been taken to the next level at Eat Street staple, Azia. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Sunday you can indulge in the ultimate build-your-own Bloody Mary bar. Featuring not only all the standard Bloody-friendly fare, but also glorious additions such as red curry, serano chili, lychee and pickled ginger -- just to name a few. Put your own spin on bloody sake, bloody beer, and other bloody concoctions made with vodka, tequila, whiskey and gin. Accompany your drink with something off Azia's new "Sunday Snackin'" menu featuring such delectables as Pork Steamed Buns, Sweet Potato Fries with Curry Aioli, Kobe or Crabcake sliders, Tempura veggies and more. What could make this even more enticing? Everything on the menu is ONLY $5 -- food AND bloodys. What a deal!SPECIAL DEAL FOR L'ETOILE READERS: Mention l'etoile and recieve a free appetizer off the Bloody Sunday menu with the purchase of any Bloody Mary!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE AZIA WEBSITE

SUNDAY JUNE 21st

Pride Picnic

@ Como Park, East Pavilions1225 Estabrook DrSt Paul

It’s that time of year again to celebrate Twin Cities Pride! And what could be a better opportunity on Father’s day than to kick off GLBT pride at an outing that even Dad would love? This free event provides yummy grilled fare, old-fashioned races, games, and of course softball. Mosey over to the Como Zoo and Conservatory, take a spin on the old carousel, or just have a gay old time with friends and family.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TC PRIDE SITE

TUESDAY JUNE 16TH

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager923 Washington Avenue N.Minneapolis

Every Tuesday10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

When I was in high school, I had a lot of crushes. On musicians, actors, imaginary friends, and occasionally on real-life boys. I remember a particular party that I attended, at which I slow danced with one of these real-life boys. First of all, I know. Who slow dances at a house party? It was weird. But wait, it gets weirder. We were dancing to the classic Mariah Carey ballad “Butterfly.” Half a verse in, my crushworthy partner began humming along. As soon as the chorus kicked in, he was softly singing the lyrics into my ear (oh yeah, he knew all the words perfectly). By the end of the song, he was practically flapping his arms in the air as if they were wings and belting out the lyrics. The whole experience was confusing, off-putting, and a little traumatic. Looking back, I think he may have been on something. I don’t know where you are now crushboy, but I have a pretty good guess: musical theater.

Point being, despite this incredibly negative experience, I still really have a thing for butterflies. Not, like, lower back tattoo butterflies, but actual specimens. So I’m appropriately coveting these necklaces from Bona Drag.

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GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR

Jahna Peloquin fills you in on even MORE cool events going on this weekend and next week!

Thursday, June 11, 2009

We're quite obsessed with the new Valentino documentary opening at the Oak Street Cinema this Friday, so we're officially declaring this weekend a RED weekend! When you're out and about, enjoying all the fantastic events in the Twin Cities, channel an inner Valentino by poppin' your signature style with a bit o' crimson. Whether you're hip hoppin', rockin', or gazin' at glorious art, this colorful weekend will be one of delectably stylin' proportions!

xo-l'étoile

THURSDAY JUNE 11TH

5 Years of Love: Cliché 5 Year Anniversary Show

@ Plaza Verde1516 East Lake St. Minneapolis

8pm / $8

It's hard to believe that the stylish Uptown boutique Cliché is turning 5 this year - they grow up so fast! We are forever indebted to the chic boutique for bringing us the latest styles from hot local designers and giving independent fashion a place to call home. Tonight, show Cliché your undying devotion by reserving a spot at the exclusive anniversary show, Cliché: Five Years of Love. Featuring runway collections from amazing local designers including Ivan Idland, Kjurek Couture, Maritza Ramirez, Red Shoe Clothing, Amanda Christine and Jenny Carle Designs, and many more. Cliche's Plaza Verde show is your ticket to fabulous local fashion and breathtaking, wearable, creative innovation -- now that's amoré! Seating is limited and, if past shows are any indicator, will sell out quickly. Pick up your tix at Cliché before another fashionista snatches 'em all away. Call ahead to check availability 612-870-0420.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE CLICHE SITE

THURSDAY JUNE 11TH

Docomomo

@ Design Within Reach2939 Hennepin Ave S. Minneapolis

6-8pm / Free

Despite its strange moniker -- which reminds us of the cheesy Beach Boy hit “Kokomo” -- DOCOMOMO really has absolutely nothing to do with pop music. It does, however, have to do with pop culture. The new chapter of international organization, DOCOMOMO, holds it's launch party tonight at Uptown boutique, Design Within Reach. Comprised of enthusiasts, historians, architects, designers, students and preservationists, DOCOMOMO's members' love for the Modern Movement gives Ikea a run for their money. The group promotes public interest through didactic lectures and advocates the protection of historical and endangered sites and buildings. Enjoy refreshments and conversation with other modern-loving minds.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE DOCOMOMO SITE

THURSDAY JUNE 11TH

MinnEconomy

@ Electric Fetus2000 4th Ave. SMinneapolis

6-9pm / Free

The Electric Fetus presents MinnEconomy, tapping into the shop-local trend which empowers both shoppers and artists by offering them a forum to sell their craft. Every month the legendary record store pairs Minneapolis musicians and artists with neighborhood businesses to encourage buying local and to promote local talent. This month’s MinnEconomy begins with a reception with food from Birchwood Cafe and Thousand Hills Cattle Company, beverages courtesy of Summit Brewing, and the music of l’étoile faves Lookbook AND a rare performance by Halloween, Alaska. Stop down to support buying local!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ELECTRIC FETUS SITE

FRIDAY ART PICK: PAT KECK

If you crossed a New Wave enthusiast with a wood sculptor, then sent them to join the circus -- then your end result might be Pat Keck. An artist from Andover, Mass., Keck sculpts ghosts, zombies, and automatons’ which are often coin-operated. She sculpts the figures, engineers the working parts, and paints them up all pretty. In short, she is a living legend and a hidden gem of sculptors!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PAT KECK SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

2007/2008 McKnight Photographers Exhibition

@ Franklin Art Works1021 East Franklin AvenueMinneapolis

7pm-9pm / Free

What would you do with $25,000 and a lot of recognition if you were a photographer? These four talents--Peter Latner, Anthony Marchetti, Paula McCartney, and Tom Wik show off works created after being named McKnight Fellows last year. From calming nature to apartment interiors, these photographers represent the best of the best! Through August 1st.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COMImage by Anthony Marchetti

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

Valentino: The Last Emperor

@ Oak Street Cinema 309 Oak Street SE. Minneapolis

7:15 & 9:15/ $7 General, $6 Students, $5 Members

From the runways of the Paris ateliers to the local Oak Street Cinema screen, tonight's opening night viewing of Valentino: The Last Emperor, celebrates the brilliant fashion career of Italy's infamous designer, Valentino Garavani. The dramatic film from Vanity Fair editor, Matt Trynauer, invites the audience to embark on a colorful and exclusive journey into the intimate closet of Valentino's haute couture fashion empire. Shot over the course of two years, the condensed 250 hours of footage in this feature length film provides unprecedented access to Valentino's life and personal relationships, and a behind the scenes look into the 20th Century fashion business. Opening night is co-sponsored by MNfashion. Wear RED! Runs through June 25th.

BONUS: Mention MNfashion and receive $1 off both screening times.

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

Blue Groove

@ Blue 2922 Aldrich Ave. S. Minneapolis

8pm / $25 / RSVP ONLY

If the modernly chic architecture of Uptown Lyndale's new luxury apartments, Blue, hasn't already captured your eye's attention, tonight's swanky shindig is definitely guaranteed to. Produced by the one and only Brant Kingman, this exclusive party transforms the building's urban amenities into a “sensory playground.” Featuring gravity defying aerialists in the entry; fire dancers, hula hoopers and fire art sculptures in the courtyard; synchronized swimmers in the pool area; electronic tunes from local deejays; hor d'oeuvres and specialty cocktails -- plus special surprises around every stylish corner. Proceeds from the event go towards the youth oriented non-profit organization Elpis Enterprises and ticket costs include complimentary valet parking and refreshments. This event is RSVP only. Email rsvp@move2blue.com with TICKET PURCHASE in the subject line for VIP guest spots!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BLUE WEBSITE

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

Vimlab Boat Party

@ Boom Island Park700 Sibley St NEMinneapolis

9:30pm-1am / 21+ / $30

All aboard the Minneapolis Queen! Kick off the warm, breezy summer nights in style as this floating dance party sets sail (rain or shine) for the first time this summer. The Queen takes off at 10pm sharp and takes you down the mighty Mississip along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Heritage Trail, past Nicollet Island and through the lock at Historic St. Anthony Falls, passing under the Stone Arch Bridge and beyond. The boat will be bangin' with very special guest DJs Jevne and Love & Payne. Don't miss out on one of the best floating parties of the summer!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VIMLAB SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

Cramps Tribute Show

@ Triple Rock Social Club629 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis

9pm / 21+ / $5

Legendary psychobilly band The Cramps unexpectedly lost its lead singer this past February, the campy but brilliant Lux Interior. Tonight’s tribute celebrates the uniquely weird pastiche of rock’n'roll, psychedelia, sexuality, and monster movie/junk food/swamp-creature aesthetic that made the Cramps notorious. Featuring the music of Revolver Modele, The Hostages, Hot Rod Hearse, Dissateratti, Vaudevillainess, and a special appearance from Heather Spears. Hosted by Lux Inferior and Poison Ivory, with vintage Cramps footage showing all night.

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

How Was the Show 7th Anniversary Party

@ Turf Club1601 University AvenueSt. Paul

9pm / 21+ / $6

Founder David de Young says it best: “In Internet years, 7 is a long time!” Beloved local website HowWasTheShow.com celebrates seven years online as one of the cities' most trusted sources of live-music coverage. This year the HowWasTheShow staff hand picked some of their favorite Twin Cities bands and put together a celebration that includes instrumental cover band Big Trouble (with a few surprise vocalists!) along with Communist Daughter, Aby Wolf and indie pop band The Inwood Radio.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HOW WAS THE SHOW SITE

FRIDAY JUNE 12TH

Street Sounds Swirlin’ Through My Mind

@ First Avenue VIP Room701 1st Ave NMinneapolis

10pm / $5 / 18+

June might have gotten off to a chilly start, but things will be heating up at the VIP Room tonight during monthly dance party, Street Sounds. DJs Attitude City, Mike the 2600 King and Winship stir up disco, boogie and house to get you sweating. Wear your dance pants!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FIRST AVE SITE

COOL LINK: ALIDRA ALIC JEWELLERY

To go along with the season's blooming flowers, we bring you the sweet, delicate designs of Danish darling Alidra Alic. Based in nature with a romantic, avant garde twist, Alic's latest collection features bold rings made of both plastic and metal. Comprised of big, melty blooms and lacy, whimsical mini-sculptures for the fingers, it's really no wonder this dreamy collection is inspired by the tale of Alice in Wonderland.

Ride your vintage turquoise Vespa (we wish we had one!) to this mod affair celebrating the art of the scooter. Outside, a scooter exhibition in the parking lot gets everyone reved up, while inside a memorabilia display by Michael & Eric Dregni, delights and educates. Over 25 local and international artists show their art along with a raffle, a DJ spinning mod tunes, and projections of scooter movies and commercials.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY JUNE 13TH

BBQ & Hip Hop

@ Nomad World Pub501 Cedar Ave SMinneapolis

6pm / $6 / 21+

The Nomad never ceases to bring creativity to the bar scene! Munch on some BBQ’d treats while listening to the beats of Illuminous 3, Usual Suspects, Blade Brown and Sevadar Sehaj. DJ Mixwell commands the turntables and your full belly decides how much you can move afterwards. Grilling and music equals summer is officially here!

Northeast Minneapolis' Art Minion Gallery hosts Sweet Hair, a super cool art event that showcases the hairy work of 37 locally-based designers, printmakers and artists. DJs Rambo Salinas and Talk Radio will be spinning tunes, and professional stylists from Mezzanine Salon will be on hand to make you purdy. It's sponsored by Surly Brewing Co. (mmm...beer) and it's for a good cause: proceeds go to Locks of Love, which provides hairpieces for financially disadvantaged children with long-term hair loss due to illness. Get all your hair cut off and request that it be made into a wicked pompadour wig, a sweet mullet, a "Rachel," or maybe even a Farrah Fawcett. The show will be up for one month following tonight's opening reception, and all art purchased will be accompanied by a discount to Frame Ups Custom Framing. Sweet deal!

We're here! We're queer! And we love hip-hop! Ushered in by the success of last year, musical activist event Hip Hop Against Homophobia, is back for another round -- and this time bigger and better than ever. Presented by Culturebully, Cypher Coalition, TruRuts and MN GLBTA Campus Alliance, HHAH features a hot line-up of MC's and performers including Tori Fixx, Johnny Dangerous, Lindsey of 2 Flytz, Bottom Feeders & EZRA of Death Ray Scientific, See More Perspective and the Point of View Band, Poetic Assassins, and DJ Blowtorch with proceeds going to benefit the local organizations Color CoordiNATION, GLBT Host Home Program and Reclaim. Damn straight, err..gay.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BEDLAM SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 13TH

Let's Dance

@ Red Stag Supper Club509 1st Avenue NENortheast Minneapolis

11pm / 21+ / Free

A raging dance party in a supper club? You bet! Booty-shakin' professionals Millions Billions and Tendercakes will tickle your dance-bone with their sexy selection of slammin' trax tonight at the Red Stag! Along with some major dance action, you'll enjoy killer late night happy hour specials such as $3 taps and wine, $4 cocktails, and cheapie gourmet treats ranging from $2-$4.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE RED STAG SITE

SATURDAY JUNE 13TH

Jon Hester Farewell Party

@ 414 Soundbar414 3rd Ave NMinneapolis

10pm/$6

Minneapolis is losing a good one to far away Barcelona (Yes, SPAIN). Stop by tonight to say your goodbyes and thank yous to the luminous and talented DJ Jon Hester. Between 10 and 11, the complimentary champagne will be flowing thanks to Ed Hardy, and DJ Mike Moilanen will provide the tunes. Mike G and Hester will make special DJ appearances throughout the evening. Adios, ciao, farewell Jon -- Minneapolis won't be the same without you!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE JON HESTER MYSPACE

SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: FREE ENERGY

Before we say anything, just be warned. Once you hear Free Energy’s totally rad and obviously brilliant new track ‘Dream City’, you will, and we mean you WILL have it stuck in your head and be singing along like a damned fool -- which might cause you some embarrassment. Oh well. Remember awesome local band Hockey Night? Well, a couple of the dudes from that band (including past l'étoile contributor Lauren Schad's super cute boyfriend, Paul Sprangers!) moved to NYC and hooked up with the DFA’s James Murphy and recorded this album of Thin Lizzy-loving, ’70s classic rock soft triumphs with a real high-fidelity, guitar-heavy and totally un-ironic AM-rock sound that reminds us of Tom Petty and epic summer nights.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FREE ENERGY MYSPACEPhoto by Rachel Leah Woliansky

SUNDAY JUNE 14TH

Gig Poster Book Release and Poster Sale

@ Magers and Quinn 3038 Hennepin Ave. S. Minneapolis

6-9pm / Free

Let's face it, our local poster artists rock! Celebrating the release of Gig Posters Vol. 1 - a book compiled of great rock show art – Magers and Quinn and gigposters.com present a night dedicated to the talented designers and collectives holding down feature spreads in the pages of the book. Peruse through screen-print works from local designers Adam Turman, Aesthetic Apparatus, DWITT, Squad 19, Tooth, Amy Jo, Lonny Unitus and Burlesque of North American. Meet the artists and best of all, your favorite infamous prints will be available for purchase. To top it off, Magers and Quinn will be offering 10% off their entire selection of music books – perfect for any die-hard music junkie and great as coffee table accessories.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MAGERS AND QUINN SITE

TUESDAY JUNE 16TH

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager923 Washington Avenue N.Minneapolis

Every Tuesday10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

5) Her new single "Paparazzi," which is one of my favorite music videos in years. Metal leotards and matching crutches? Bedazzled neck braces and shoe-licking? Yes, please.

Read the whole post HERE which includes videos and images galore! Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi" (we LOVE this to death!)

GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR

Jahna Peloquin previews Thursday's Cliche Fashion Show.

Preview: Cliche's Summer Fashion Show

Local boutique Cliché's fashion show are always worth noting on your social planner, but its annual summer fashion show is its biggest of the year. It will be held this Thursday, June 11 at Plaza Verde, an old dance hall that turns out to be a surprisingly ideal setting for such an event. Fifteen of the shop's top-notch roster of up-and-coming, hard-working local designers will show summer and fall 2009 collections, paired with accessories from Cliché's local accessory designers. Below is a preview of what you can expect. To read the rest of the article and see some of the designs, click below!

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